Learner Drivers Allowed On Motorways

Pass Plus option to be added to standard driving lessons for all learner drivers

A motorway: at present, off limits to learner drivers. Changes pencilled in for next year could see learner drivers on motorways as part of their driving lessons. Image by Chrispo (via Shutterstock).

The United Kingdom has 2,173 miles of motorway. At present, none of them are open to learner drivers. After passing their driving test, motorway driving is covered as part of the Pass Plus scheme. From 2018, subject to a consultation, this could change.

Next year, learner drivers could be seen on our motorways. Under the proposals, competent drivers will be taught by their friendly driving instructor how to negotiate the M25, M2, M20, or any other motorway one cares to mention. With the usual dual pedalled instructor’s vehicle, he or she will be taught their slow lanes from their overtaking lanes, and everything to do with countdown markers or LED signs. He or she will be given first hand experience of contraflows, Smart Motorways, and the importance of taking a break at a Motorway Service Area.

There will also be changes to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) programme for motorcyclists. In line with motorists’ driving tests, a theory test may be introduced. The measures have been welcomed by the RAC. They stated that new drivers have purposefully avoided motorways in favour of less safe roads. In truth, fewer accidents have occurred on motorways than any other class of road in the UK.

The consultation will run until the 17 February of this year. If plans to get learner drivers on the motorways are approved, they will take effect next year. By then, you could be seeing more of our Drive4Life instructors on the M25.